I did not learn till a few days ago, that you had sufficiently got over your reported illness at Norfolk, to return home. I hope your health is now good & will continue so.

I inclose an extract from a letter recd. from Mr. Long some time ago, which shews that we cannot rely on a successor from England to the Chair he filled in the University; that he strongly recommends Doctr. Harrison for it: & that the latter is well disposed to remain in it. A letter recd. at the same time from Mr. Barbour affords as little encouragement. I have been looking daily for other letters promised by both.

It seems quite probable that we shall be driven to a choice from among Candidates who may be found at home; and it will be for consideration, how far the experiment with regard to Dor. Harrison entitles him to a preference. Your opportunities of appreciating it, are better than mine; better I presume than the means possessed by any of our Colleagues, you will therefore be able to assist the Board much in coming to a proper decision.

It was my intention to make this communication a few days sooner. But a very severe Cold of the Influenza family, obliged me to delay it With great esteem & regard